Cover 2 College Football pod (Sports)

Georgia's loss to South Carolina opens up the playoff discussion but how far should UGA fall? How good is LSU and how far should Florida fall? Who can challenge Ohio State: Wisconsin or Penn St? Does Oklahoma finally have a defense? And the Pac-12 is far more interesting than you thought a few weeks ago.

Direct download: C2_101419.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:33am CDT

Florida proved itself in a big way over Auburn while the Big Ten continues to get more interesting every week as Ohio St, Penn St and Wisconsin stay unbeaten while Michigan rebounds in a critical spot. How do we feel about unbeaten Baylor, Wake Forest and Minnesota? Is the Pac-12 finally finished? And what went down in the Big 12 this week?

Direct download: C2_100719_.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:32am CDT

We try to make a case for six different teams to be No. 1 in the nation (and isn't that cool for college football, right?) Where do Auburn, Wisconsin, Florida and one-loss teams fit in? Why Notre Dame's win is already underrated, the Pac-12 is what we thought they were and should you go for two? Our Week 5 recap.

Direct download: C2_092919.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 12:16pm CDT

Ohio St, Notre Dame and Clemson have interesting tests in Week 5. A large group of teams that want to contend need to handle their business this weekend - like Washington, Auburn, Utah, Wisconsin, Penn St and Cal. And why we are obsessed with some Big 12 football this weekend.

Direct download: C2_092519.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:27am CDT

Did we learn more about Georgia or Notre Dame in the marquee showdown of Week 4? How much pressure is Jim Harbaugh under now after getting trounced by Wisconsin? Should we all just quit because Auburn will win the natty? And thank you Pac-12 for a wonderful weekend of no-pants partying late in the night. All that and much more in our Week 4 recap.

Direct download: C2_092319.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:41am CDT

Georgia-Notre Dame, Michigan-Wisconsin and Auburn-A&M highlight a great week four of action as conference play starts to get going around the country. Four ranked Pac-12 teams go on the road, Texas tries to end a bizarre losing streak and some second tier SEC games make this the most intriguing weekend of the season thus far.

Direct download: C2_091819.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 1:45pm CDT

The guys recap the complete nonsense that took place at the end of games in Week 3. Coaching decisions, penalties, poor officiating and dumb mistakes by players galore. Is Clay Helton in trouble at USC? What will Florida do without it's starting QB? And what should college fans make of the new law passed in California allowing athletes to profit from their Name, Image and Likeness?

Direct download: C2_091619.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 12:17pm CDT

Most of the top ranked teams in college football will go on the road for the first time this weekend but will they be tested? Meanwhile, lots of teams that have started well need to prove they belong - looking at you Virginia, Michigan St and the state of Iowa. All that and more in our Week 3 preview.

Direct download: C2_091119.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:04am CDT

Clemson and LSU won huge games in Week 2 over top 15 teams. Was there was a big shake-up atop the Big Ten? The Pac-12 continues to falter and has given itself no margin for error. Meanwhile, what is wrong with Miami, Tennessee and UCLA? The guys empty the notebook on Week 2.

Direct download: C2_090919.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:09am CDT

Bo Nix led Auburn to a huge win over Oregon in the biggest game of the weekend. But does the loss really mean the Pac-12 is eliminated? (Hint: No, this is stupid). The bottom of the SEC laid a giant egg but is the league in as bad of shape as the scoreboard indicated? Is Willie Taggart in trouble at FSU? We empty the notebook on Week 1.

Direct download: C2_090219.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:20am CDT

Auburn-Oregon should be fantastic and could give us a new playoff contender. The rest of the slate, however, leaves something to be desired in what could be the weakest opening weekend in recent memory. Still, the guys cover all the most important games from conference matchups in the ACC to potential G5 upsets. Plus, should we be worried about injuries and suspensions for Alabama?

Direct download: C2_082819.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:36am CDT

A sloppy but fun first weekend of action lead to a Florida win and a Miami lose. Arizona was also upset late night as well. Did we learn anything new about Florida? Has Miami found a QB? Is Kevin Sumlin already in trouble in Tuscon? Should college teams have a preseason game?

Direct download: C2_082619.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 10:56am CDT

What questions do you need to answer to pick four playoff teams and a national champion? Mitch and Braden make their final College Football Playoff and title picks but explain the mental gymnastics needed to get there. Also, a Florida-Miami preview for this weekend as well as football IS OFFICIALLY BACK!

Direct download: C2_082119.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:55am CDT

A few more coaches (Wake Forest, North Carolina) have announced starting QBs and we thought we dive into the stats. How many starting QBs will be transfers this year and how does that relate to previous years? Where is the trend headed and should we be concerned? We also take our Nightmare Road Trip '19 where we try to watch the worst games in P5 football. Mitch also breaks down dropping his oldest off at college.

Direct download: C2_081919.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:34am CDT

Camp is in full swing across the country as some teams are naming starting QBs and some are losing players to injury already. Additionally, should Kelly Bryant have a ring? What went wrong with James Hudson's transfer from Michigan? And what the most important games of 2019 that you NEED to know about that no one is talking about?

Direct download: C2_081419.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 2:21pm CDT

Our conference camp preview week covers all five power conferences by posing one question: What do we NOT know about the Big Ten? From coaching staffs to depth charts to QB battles to schedules, what questions do we need answered this August? It's the "We Know What We Don't Know Tour."

Direct download: C2_080719_B1G.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 8:19am CDT

Our conference camp preview week covers all five power conferences by posing one question: What do we NOT know about the Pac-12? From coaching staffs to depth charts to QB battles to schedules, what questions do we need answered this August? It's the "We Know What We Don't Know Tour."

Direct download: C2_080519_P12.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 7:23am CDT

Our conference camp preview week covers all five power conference by posing one question: What do we NOT know about the ACC? From coaching staffs to depth charts to QB battles to schedules, what questions do we need answered this August? It's the "We Know What We Don't Know Tour."

Direct download: C2_080619_ACC.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 8:58am CDT

Our conference camp preview week covers all five power conference by posing one question: What do we NOT know about the Big 12? From coaching staffs to depth charts to QB battles to schedules, what questions do we need answered this August? It's the "We Know What We Don't Know Tour."

Direct download: C2_080519_B12.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 9:04am CDT

Our conference camp preview week covers all five power conference by posing one question: What do we NOT know about the SEC? From coaching staffs to depth charts to QB battles to schedules, what questions do we need answered this August? It's the "We Know What We Don't Know Tour."

Direct download: C2_080219_SEC.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 9:46am CDT

Jim Harbaugh is stirring it up again but is it a real controversy? Jim Delany is complaining again but is he simply lobbying? Would changing the divisions actually do anything for the Big Ten? The ACC event was quiet but a major debate about the second-best team broke out. Out West, the Pac-12 clearly is trying to fix it's image problem and part of that could be what happens with Clay Helton. All that and more accepted applicants for our Podhead College Fantasy League.

Direct download: C2_072519.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 12:16pm CDT

Talking Season is underway as SEC, AAC and Big 12 media days have wrapped up (we will cover the rest next week). Did Nick Saban make excuses or give us interesting insight? Is the Big 12 handling the Horns Down gesture correctly? What good can come from the SEC having an officiating twitter account? And poor, poor Randy Edsall. Lastly, we debate who should be in our first Cover 2 Podheads College Fantasy League.

Direct download: C2_071819.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 10:54am CDT

The guys address reaction to last week's non-conference podcast with some thoughts and data on conference scheduling. Then we take a fun trip through the hypothetical coaching ranks and what the dominoes would be should some major jobs come open (think: what if Dabo really did take the Bama job?). Lastly, we announce how you can join our college fantasy football league, here's a hint: it won't be easy.

Direct download: C2_071019.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:44am CDT

Arguing over non-conference scheduling is an old college football tradition. Especially, now that a committee scrutinizes resumes with a fine tooth comb. So, based on our preseason rankings, we wanted to see exactly which leagues are doing it right. Of course, all of this changes as the season goes along but setting the preseason benchmark is important. Additionally, how do we feel about allowing celebrations in college football?

Direct download: C2_070319.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 10:26am CDT

UConn is leaving the AAC for the Big East. What does this mean for the future of Husky football and why is every school President, Athletic Director and Board of Trustees focused on what UConn does? Can the AAC actually turn this into an opportunity? Meanwhile, out West, California is forcing the NCAA's hand with legislation and Mr. President isn't having it. Are we more likely to see a Power-5 breakaway now? And an SEC recruiting story to end all SEC recruiting stories.

Direct download: C2_062619.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:51am CDT

The guys are off on their third annual (and fictional) college football dream road trip! The rules are simple: You can't watch a team more than once. We both took into account the quality of the game, the impact on championship races, the history of the match-up and destinations we'd want to experience. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Play the home version and tweet us your dream road trip in 2019.

Direct download: C2_062119.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 12:09pm CDT

The guys take a long look at some of the most impactful, interesting and unpredictable quarterback battles this summer. None of the top 18 teams in our rankings have a QB battle - how unusual is this and does it mean anything? The SEC has the best QBs, the ACC is severely lacking, the Pac-12 is sneaky good and both the Big 12 and Big Ten have some intriguing upside. We make predictions and talk signal callers for all of the biggest QB battles of 2019.

Direct download: C2_061219.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:39am CDT

Mitch and Braden continue their deep dive into college football coaching by tackling the Group of 5 ranks, the coordinator ranks, Art Briles return to coaching and who has the most punchable face.

Direct download: C2_053019_P2.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 10:25am CDT

Mitch and Braden take a deep dive into the coaching ranks. Today, the guys rank the best coaches in college football. Which league has the best coaches? Which coaches have earned the benefit of the doubt in the last few years? Which coaches are trending in the wrong direction but aren't near the hot seat? Who are the most underrated head coaches?

Direct download: C2_053019_P1.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:11am CDT

The NCAA has formed a committee to look into changing rules about compensating players for their Name, Image and Likeness (NIL). How could this work effectively? Why is this happening now? What will the free market have to say about players' monetary value? What are some of the unintended consequences about NIL compensation? We conduct a deep dive of how NIL rule changes could save the amateur model.

Direct download: C2_052219.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:18am CDT

Steven Lassan joins Mitch and Braden to dissect the Athlon Sports' official 2019 college football playoff predictions. Alabama v. Clemson? Is anyone else on their tier? Which teams make up the second tier and could get into the Playoff? What teams could surprise and jump into the playoff mix? We give you our picks and why for 2019.

Direct download: C2_051619.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 10:21am CDT

We decide this week to do a deep dive into how the magazine is produced each year. We explain every step of the process from assignment to printer: team stories, features, stats, photography, cover design and fact-checking. Do predictions have any impact on sales? Why did we beef up our national magazine this year? What are some of the biggest mistakes we've made over the years? It's an inside look at how we produce our magazines, how that has changed over the years and we hope you enjoy it.

Direct download: C2_050819.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 10:27am CDT

Nashville, our home, hosted the 2019 NFL Draft and we spent all three days downtown taking it all in. Why do NFL fans care so much about dudes walking across a stage but won't watch them on Saturdays? The stats of the draft include two impressive streaks ending, the SEC continuing its dominance and recruiting rankings once again proving themselves to be worthy.

Direct download: C2_042919.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:09am CDT

When we put the college football magazine together every year, we lock ourselves in a room and yell at each other about football teams. Here is an in-depth look into that meeting at the toughest decisions and most heated debates we faced as a staff concerning our predictions in 2019.

Direct download: C2_041919.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 1:50pm CDT

Mitch Light makes his triumphant return to argue with Braden Gall about the best programs in college football. Based on criteria like access to players, fan support, resources, path to a title, tradition and location, what is the best program in the country? We break down all of the best coaching jobs in college football in 2019.

Direct download: C2_041019_130.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 7:33am CDT

Steven Lassan fills in for Mitch as we rank every Power 5 program in the nation, based on attractiveness of the head coaching position. We take into account things like access to talent (geography), history and tradition (proof of concept) and support (money, fanbase). What is the best job in the AAC, C-USA, Mountain West, MAC and Sun Belt? Do two leagues dominate the rankings? And which coach is doing the most with the least?

Direct download: C2_032719_G5.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 8:33am CDT

Steven Lassan fills in for Mitch as we rank every Power 5 program in the nation, based on attractiveness of the head coaching position. We take into account things like access to talent (geography), history and tradition (proof of concept) and support (money, fanbase). Michigan vs. Penn St? What is Nebraska? Michigan St vs. Wisconsin? The West vs. the East? Urban versus rural locations? We also added some thoughts on Jim Delany and what he means to college football.

Direct download: C2_032719_B1G.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 8:34pm CDT

Steven Lassan fills in for Mitch as we rank every Power 5 program in the nation, based on attractiveness of the head coaching position. We take into account things like access to talent (geography), history and tradition (proof of concept) and support (money, fanbase). Oregon, Washington and UCLA are all chasing USC but which one is closest to catching the Trojans as the best program in the Pac-12? What do we make of the Arizona schools and new comers Colorado and Utah? And how the hell do you win at Wazzu?

Direct download: C2_032719_P12.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 1:08pm CDT

We just wanted to quickly update you on what is going on. Mitch current status is day-to-day and apologize for our last minute schedule changes. The Cover 2 is perfectly fine and will be back shortly but we wanted to give you guys all an update. Thanks for sticking with us!

Direct download: C2_Mitch_Update.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 10:40am CDT

We are ranking every Power 5 program in the nation, based on attractiveness of the head coaching position. We take into account things like access to talent (geography), history and tradition (proof of concept) and support (money, fanbase). Texas and Oklahoma a cut above everyone else but who is best between the two powerhouses? Is there a clearcut No. 3? How do outposts like Morgantown and Lubbock factor in? What's the difference between TCU and Baylor?

Direct download: C2_030118_B12.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 7:41am CDT

We are ranking every Power 5 program in the nation, based on attractiveness of the head coaching position. We take into account things like access to talent (geography), history and tradition (proof of concept) and support (money, fanbase). Florida State or Clemson at the top? How good is Miami and where would Notre Dame slot? What do we make of the muddled middle of the ACC? Big cities vs. small towns? Pitt and Syracuse have been hurt by modernization and why has BC overachieved.

Direct download: C2_030118_ACC.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:33am CDT

We are ranking every Power 5 program in the nation, based on attractiveness of the head coaching position. We take into account things like access to talent (geography), history and tradition (proof of concept) and support (money, fanbase). What is the best job in the SEC? How do we differentiate between Auburn, Tennessee and LSU? Texas A&M has everything except winning. Oxford vs. Starkville? Arkansas vs. South Carolina?

Direct download: C2_022718.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:46am CDT

In light of the in-depth study into the NBA gambling scandal of 2007, are college sports more corrupt as it pertains to gambling than we think? Is football tougher to fix than basketball? Which players are susceptible? One current coach is talking junk about another league while a former coach is running his mouth about a current coach. Oh, the off-season. The SEC coordinator carousel has finally stopped spinning and we take a look at the best 15 rosters in the country for 2019.

Direct download: C2_022018.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 10:52am CDT

College football coaches are trying to scare fans into thinking that free agency is upon us. We explain why this is flawed logic and a ploy. Meanwhile, Barry Odom is pissed at coaches for recruiting his players - should we be upset too? Is the launch of the AAF a legit option for high school players and a potential solution to saving the amateur model? How big of a loss is Jim Leavitt for Oregon?

Direct download: C2_021418.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 2:21pm CDT

The 2019 recruiting cycle is in the books and the guys break down National Signing Day from a broad perspective. What do you need to know about the rankings? In less than 18 months, the entire state of Florida has been flipped on its head. The Pac-12 is falling further and further behind the rest of college football. And programs like Nebraska, Georgia Tech, Purdue, Iowa St and Maryland have become fascinating to track on the trail. Also, Mitch and Braden comment on the Art Briles-Southern Miss fiasco.

Direct download: C2_020818.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:28am CDT

We focus on the QB position today as the NCAA multi-dimensional transfer portal is heating up. Fans should change their perception of "the transfer." Who is projected to have a transfer starter in 2019 and who is doing the best job of developing talent at the position. Who lives (or dies) by the transfer? Which league will have the best and most interesting signal callers in 2019?

Direct download: C2_013118.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:33am CDT

How did the first year guys fare in 2018 and how much does that impact they way we view their futures moving forward? Should expectations now be changed at Nebraska, Florida, UCLA, Texas A&M or Florida State? And who in the new coach class of 2019 is best set up for success right away? Urban is back working, is Clemson the best of all-time and Texas-TAMU might be ramping up?

Direct download: C2_012318.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:34am CDT

No, we aren't debating the merits of expansion. What we do talk about is why is this happening now? What are the next steps fans can expect? Who is the driving force behind expansion talks and who will be making the decisions? Lastly, predictions on what will happen BEFORE expansion takes place.

 

The guys also cover transfer news, coaching changes and the NFL Draft underclassmen as well.

Direct download: C2_011518.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 6:20am CDT

The guys look back on 2018 and our predictions that went horribly wrong. We apologize for overhyping some teams (Auburn, Miami) while downplaying others (LSU, Wazzu). We apologize to certain quarterbacks and certain head coaches. This group therapy session is all about holding ourselves accountable (and not taking it too seriously!)

Direct download: C2_011118.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:27am CDT

Mitch and Braden were dead wrong about Clemson and Alabama and are sorry. The guys talk about the players, plays, coaches and decisions that have removed Bama from the top of the college football mountain. How has Dabo done it and what can others learn from Clemson? 

 

And a quick look at what a preseason 2019 Top 25 may look like - because, here's a shocker, Alabama and Clemson will be good next year.

Direct download: C2_010818.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:17am CDT

Clemson and Alabama will meet for the third time in the national title game. But what will a title game in Santa Clara look like? Is this game the most talented combo since Miami-Ohio St 2002? Which do you prefer: Aerial assaults or trench warfare? And which style will win Monday night? Which QB plays better (or makes the fewest mistakes)? Which outcome is better for college football?

 

Coaching Tidbits: What in the hell is Holgo thinking? Did Miami settle? Will UT ever hire an offensive coordinator?

Direct download: C2_010318.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:29am CDT

Alabama and Clemson have done what they were supposed to do as we told you back in April (and August and December) and won their way into the Playoff. How did they do it? Both teams switched QBs and both Tua and Trevor starred for their teams, but who is better? Why does Notre Dame's loss mean they need to join a league? Why are people tired of greatness in the championship game? We breakdown both national semifinal outcomes.

 

Direct download: C2_123018.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 12:52pm CDT

What would a win mean for Notre Dame and/or Oklahoma? How do narratives (take a shot) change should either pull the upset? Just how do we think those upsets could take place? Is the Irish defense better than we think? Will Bama get stops? Can Ian Book avoid Clemson's killer D-Line? Will Alabama gash the Sooners on the ground like Georgia? What else does last year's semis teach us about this year? Lastly, we make very boring picks and praise the TV layout for this year's playoff. 

Direct download: C2_122418.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 7:25am CDT

Is the early signing day now just THE national signing day? Did Alabama sign the best class ever or is the rest of the SEC catching up with Nick Saban? What the hell is happening in the Pac-12 as both USC and UCLA struggle while Oregon dominates. The state of Florida also saw winners (Florida) and major losers (Florida St, Miami). Is Nebraska setting itself up for a run in the Big Ten West? The guys cover all things Signing Day in this impromptu mini-pod!

Direct download: C2_122018.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 9:09am CDT

Justin Fields is exploring a transfer from Georgia. How much does his decision change the landscape in 2019 should he be eligible? There are conversations swirling around playoff expansion. Why are we getting conflicting reports and what should the power brokers be talking about? How big of a role has UCF played in this movement? Lastly, early signing period is this week. Who does it help and what storylines are we tracking.

Direct download: C2_121818.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:30am CDT

Kyler Murray won the Heisman! Braden releases his ballot and why he voted for who he did. Did Tua deserve to win and who the hell left him off their ballots? Georgia Tech and Kansas State have made two solid hires as well as Liberty! (Yes, Liberty) The coordinator carousel is spinning. And bowl games: Do the results matter or tell us anything about how good a team or league is? And do we have an issue with all these star players sitting out their team's bowl game?

Direct download: C2_121118.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:33am CDT

Urban Meyer will step down at the end of the season so what do we make of his legacy? Is Ryan Day the right answer for Ohio State? What do we make of the other Power 5 hires at Texas Tech, Louisville, Maryland and Colorado? Will Kliffy save Clay Helton at USC? And the newest hottest way to cover bowl season... with a Bowl Draft.

Direct download: C2_120518.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 12:45pm CDT

The Playoff is set as Alabama, Clemson, Notre Dame and Oklahoma got into the tournament. But why did OU and ND make it in over Georgia and Ohio State? What is the case you can make for the Dawgs, Buckeyes? Did we learn anything about the Committee and do we really have to talk about UCF? Also, how awesome was Saturday? And what was Kirby Smart thinking?

Direct download: Cover2_120218.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 12:46pm CDT

The guys break down every single championship game in college football this weekend. Do Alabama and Clemson even have to win to get into the Playoff? Does Northwestern have a better chance at pulling the upset than Pitt? Can Texas score with Oklahoma? And does the Pac-12 have a championship game problem? Lastly, does Notre Dame automatically belong in the Playoff? Should Georgia get consideration even if it loses? And what the hell is happening in Auburn?

Direct download: Cover2_112818.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 12:01pm CDT

Has the season come down to six teams after Michigan and Washington State were eliminated from contention on rivalry week? How should we view UCF after the injury? How should we view this loss for Jim Harbaugh? And the wins for Ohio St and Washington?

 

And the coaching rumors are swirling with coordinators moving, coaching getting hired and fired already, the guys break down the latest from the coaching merry-go-round as it just gets started moving.

Direct download: Cover2_112618.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 10:25am CDT

The guys talk rankings and if the Committee is breaking its own rules by moving UCF up? Is this a random off year for Rivalry Weekend in that not nearly as many games seem as interesting or important? What chance do Bama, Clemson, Notre Dame or Georgia have at being upset? The three games that matter, however, should be epic: The Apple Cup, Oklahoma-WVU and The Game. What about the division title games in the Group of 5? And the guys compare Thanksgiving side items to recruits.

Direct download: Cover2_112118.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 12:16pm CDT

Congrats to Pitt and Utah for clinching division titles and earning a trip to a conference championship game! One team was eliminated from the Playoff in the Big 12 while another (basically) clinched a spot in the title game after a big weekend in the Heartland. Notre Dame was incredibly impressive while Ohio State was not. What do we make of the Les Miles hiring and Clay Helton's chances of survival at USC?

Direct download: Cover2_111918.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:31am CDT

In a mild weekend of college football, focus on the Pac-12 South race as Utah, Arizona State and Arizona are still battling, the Notre Dame-Syracuse match in Yankee Stadium and two huge matchups in the Big 12 that dictate who owns the championship tie-breakers. And LOTS of Group of 5 championship action as well!

Direct download: Cover2_111418.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:42am CDT

A relatively boring weekend at the top of college football featured one elite game in the state of Oklahoma. Was going for the two the right call for the Pokes? And the underbelly of college football featured big wins for Northwestern, Pitt, Arizona St, Utah, Iowa St and Texas as all are still chasing conference titles (yes, you read that right).

 

Did Louisville do the right thing by firing Bobby-P and who are the best head coaching candidates in 2018?

Direct download: Cover2_111218.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 2:04pm CDT

Did LSU teach us anything about how to beat Alabama? Is Clemson closer to Alabama than we think? Who is else balanced enough to challenge Alabama? Additionally, how good was the WVU-Texas finish, can OU's defense win them a championship and is there something wrong at Ohio State? And, oh yeah, Michigan vs. Notre Dame could be the toughest committee decision of the playoff era.

Direct download: Cover2_110518.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:36am CDT

The guys react to the first college football playoff rankings of the year. What did they learn and what does it all mean!?! Then it's on to what could be the best weekend of college football this season!

 

The SEC title game matchup could be decided as LSU hosts Bama while Kentucky welcomes UGa in what is arguably the biggest game in school history. Meanwhile, Michigan tries to strengthen it's grasp on the Big Ten and Northwestern tries to ruin Notre Dame's season. Texas hosts West Virginia and Texas Tech hosts Oklahoma in two Big 12 showdowns. And Utah could all but clinch the South with a road win over Arizona State?

Direct download: Cover2_103118.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:42am CDT

The guys break down an upset-filled Week 9. Nine ranked teams fell and four were eliminated from the playoff but did the Top 4 change? Did Georgia do enough to prove it belongs in the top 4 and do we have clarity in the SEC now? Is Oklahoma the wildcard team that could knock off Alabama or Clemson? What the hell is going on out West in the Pac-12? And, of course, our stance on flatulence.

Direct download: Cover2_102918.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:27am CDT

Week 9 features a large collections of important games without many marquee matchups. Florida and Georgia is the biggest draw of the weekend but every other division has major implications as 11 ranked team will go on the road to face unranked opponents. Wazzu and Iowa try to keep things rolling against other ranked conference foe. And Clemson visits Florida State in what could be the Tigers toughest test left on their schedule.

Direct download: Cover2_102418.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:26am CDT

Ohio State and Michigan now appear to be on a collision course in the Big Ten after two very different outcomes in Week 8. But where does Iowa fit in? After LSU's win, the biggest story is a suspension coming against Alabama (who, by the way, won again). Clemson dominates an unbeaten foe while Virginia gets a big win in the ACC as well. How good is Washington State and who should be considered the team to beat in the Pac-12? And nothing really happened in the Big 12.

Direct download: Cover2_102218.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:57am CDT

A huge slate of games out west in the Pac-12 take center stage as Gameday heads to Pullman for the first time ever. USC-Utah, Oregon-Wazzu and Colorado-Washington highlight a great West Coast weekend. Michigan-Michigan State battle for far more than just instate bragging rights and two undefeated teams matchup in the ACC as NC State visits Clemson. Ohio State and Bama both travel on the road in conference play this week as LSU has to clear yet another hurdle against Mississippi State. Does Oklahoma flex some muscle and does a nightmare season continue for Auburn?

Direct download: Cover2_101718.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 9:32am CDT

Mitch and Braden give us their top four teams and play a "Who Wins" game that tries to figure out who else should be ranked in the top 10? Are their concerns about Ohio St, Notre Dame or Texas? Is LSU really this good? What is wrong with West Virginia? Are Georgia and Oklahoma still the best bets to make the Playoff? And much, much more in our Week 7 recap.

Direct download: Cover2_101518.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:43am CDT

A huge weekend of action features massive conference battles in the SEC, Big Ten and Pac-12. Is there a position on the field that LSU is better than Georgia? Washington travels South to Oregon in one of the most underrated rivalries in college football. And Michigan and Wisconsin battle for the U.P. Can West Virginia and Colorado stay unbeaten on the road? Should Texas or Penn St be on upset alert? And what will Tua do THIS weekend?

Direct download: Cover2_101018.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 7:50am CDT

The Irish, Horns and Gators got huge wins but how good are they? How far should Oklahoma or LSU fall? Meanwhile, out west, why is the Pac-12 so uninspiring? Who has been eliminated from the Playoffs to date? What do we make of West Virginia's defense? Auburn's offense? Ohio State's defense? How good are unbeatens like Colorado or NC State or UCF?

Direct download: Cover2_100818.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:23am CDT

A never-been-done before preview of October called October Fest this week on the pod. We break down the biggest games of the week - LSU-Florida, Notre Dame-Virginia Tech, Texas-Oklahoma - but also look ahead at the month of October and who could be heading into November with championship hopes? Also, commentary on yanking facemasks, prank-calling teleconferences and lack of institutional control.

Direct download: Cover2_100318.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:48am CDT

Has our top four changed after some drama with Ohio State and Clemson? How far should Penn State fall if at all? Is Notre Dame better than LSU or Oklahoma? Are the Sooners better with Kyler Murray than Baker Mayfield? What should Kelly Bryant do? How good is Kentucky? Meanwhile, Florida, Oregon and USC appear to have bounced back. Ryan Finley, Will Grier and Colorado continue to cruise.

Direct download: Cover2_100118.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:34am CDT

Kelly Bryant is leaving Clemson. What does it mean for Clemson, why did it happen and where should Bryant end up? There are prove it games across college football for Texas, Duke, Texas Tech, Kentucky, Syracuse and Cal. Dan Mullen's return to Starkville is must-see TV. And two marquee showdowns in South Bend and Happy Valley take center stage in Week 5.

Direct download: Cover2_092618.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:29am CDT

Braden and Mitch offer their top four teams and who has been officially eliminated from the Playoff. Who is sicker today: Virginia Tech or Oregon? Is the ACC in real trouble? The Big Ten bounced back in a big way. Is Texas back? (sorry) And we've got lots of clarity in the SEC East after a huge week four.

Direct download: Cover2_092418.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:17am CDT

Four massive games in the SEC East an I-35 showdown highlight Week 4. Kentucky, Mizzou, Vandy and Tennessee all host huge games while TCU travels south to Austin to battle Texas. An underrated rivalry in the Big Ten West could decide the division this weekend. Notre Dame will have its hands full with Wake Forest and Stanford's trip to Eugene will go a long way to deciding the Pac-12 North crown. Should either Bama or Clemson be worried this weekend?

Direct download: Cover2_092018.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:30am CDT

LSU has changed it's story more through three weeks than any other team in the nation. But how good are they? Washington's win was super underrated. And Ohio State saved the day in what turned into a nightmare weekend for the Big Ten. Is the Big 12 better at the top than we thought after Texas, Ok-State and OU win easily? And how does the Pac-12 race look after three weeks? Finally, Mitch recaps his trip to South Bend and his run-in with Notre Dame security.

Direct download: Cover2_091718.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:39am CDT

The SEC West takes a lot of focus this weekend as Alabama and LSU play big road games against Ole Miss and Auburn respectively. Could LSU pick off another top 10 team? Utah is underrated right now and could knock off the Pac-12 preseason champ. Is TCU capable of hanging with Ohio St? Will Texas and USC be great theater or an ugly football game? All of this and much more on this week's preview.

Direct download: Cover2_091218.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 1:54pm CDT

Mitch and Braden break down all of the action from Week 2. Who make the Playoff today? Is the Pac-12 better than we thought and is the Big Ten worse than we thought? Is the SEC East race already over? Is there reason for concern about Clemson or reason for hope for Texas A&M? And what to do about the worst rule in all of football?

Direct download: Cover2_090918.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:12am CDT

There are huge playoff implications on the line when both Clemson and Georgia go on the road this weekend. And can Stanford make a big statement against USC? The Cy Hawk Trophy is up for grabs in Iowa while Penn State and Pitt do battle in PA. Can Florida keep its streak alive against Kentucky and can Michigan State go out West and top Coach Herm? Hail State vs. Bill Snyder? And so much more in our Week 2 preview.

Direct download: Cover2_090518.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:33am CDT

Week 1 Recap: Has our top four changed? Tua vs. Hurts and Saban vs. the Media? Big wins for LSU, Virginia Tech and Notre Dame have changed the way we view certain leagues. Are we more concerned about Michigan, Miami or Florida State? And did both teams actually win in the Auburn-Washington tilt? Mitch's offers us reasons for optimism and reasons for concerns moving forward. Fantasy performers, waiver wire adds and more!

Direct download: Cover2_090418.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:24am CDT

College football is back and we have you set for five straight nights of college ball! Washington and Auburn will have the biggest impact on the playoff. Notre Dame and Michigan is loaded with intriguing individual matchups. LSU could completely change the offseason narrative with a win over Miami. Upset specials, picks against the spread and the rest of our favorite games from Week 1.

Direct download: Cover2_082918.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:19am CDT

Mitch and Braden make their final official 2018 college football playoff predictions and national title winner. They disagree on who will win it all this year. They guys also discuss some of the latest QB battles at USC, Florida St, Nebraska and elsewhere. Could Urban Meyer retire after this season? Week One is here!

Direct download: Cover2_082718.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:22am CDT

Conference preview week wraps up with the Big Ten. What do we make of the Urban Meyer news and how do the scandals impact how we evaluate the State of the Big Ten entering 2018? Which teams have we changed our opinions of since the magazine came out and which camp developments have shaped our opinion of the league? Is this the year Wisconsin finally proves it belongs on the elite tier or does the East still lord over the Big Ten? What do we make of Iowa, Nebraska and the middle of the West Division? Mitch also offers his over/under Vegas win total picks as well.

Direct download: Cover2_082008BigTen.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 8:53am CDT

Conference preview continues with the SEC. What is the State of the Union for the SEC coaching ranks, the East Division and the league as a whole? Which teams have we changed our opinions of since the magazine came out and which camp developments have shaped our opinion of the league? Where are the holes we can poke in Alabama? Can a star QB carry his underdog team to Atlanta? Will any coach get fired in 2018? Mitch also offers his over/under Vegas win total picks as well.

Direct download: Cover2_082008sec.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 8:59am CDT

Conference preview week continues with the most aesthetically pleasing league in America: The Pac-12. What is the State of the Union for a league that has had lots of coaching turnover and failed to make the Playoff? Which teams have we changed our opinions of since the magazine came out and which camp developments have shaped our opinion of the league? Is Washington still far ahead of the rest of the North and is USC coming back to the pack in the South? Is it Khalil Tate's world? Which division will be more fun to track? Mitch also offers his over/under Vegas win total picks as well.

Direct download: Cover2_082008Pac12.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 9:32am CDT

Conference preview week continues with the Big 12. What is the State of the Union for a league that has struggled to recruit elite NFL talent and has missed the Playoff a few times? Which teams have we changed our opinions of since the magazine came out and which camp developments have shaped our opinion of the league? Which young coach is situated to take the next step? Who will be under center this year? What do we make of Iowa St, Baylor and Kansas State? Mitch also offers his over/under Vegas win total picks as well.

Direct download: Cover2_082008big12.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 9:06am CDT

Conference preview week begins with the ACC. What is the State of the Union for the ACC? Which teams have we changed our opinions of since the magazine came out and which camp developments have shaped our opinion of the league? What is Florida State this fall? Are the QBs in this league underrated? And, I guess, we talk about Clemson too. Mitch also offers his over/under Vegas win total picks as well.

Direct download: Cover2_082008acc.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:02am CDT

There isn't a lot of news because coaches won't ever allow open practices! Why does this happen and could it help solve some of the issues we are seeing at places like Maryland. LSU and Clemson should play for the Death Valley moniker while Michigan and Wisconsin should play for the U.P. What else should be on the line? And a guy's road trip question of etiquette.

Direct download: Cover2_081608.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:19am CDT

QBs, QBs and more QBs. How do we handicap the playoff contenders battles at Bama, Clemson and Georgia? Did Nick Saban mishandle his QB room? Who are the most clutch fourth quarter gunslingers in college football? Which battles are most intriguing? And which late bloomers could change the Playoff landscape should they breakout in 2018?

Direct download: Cover2_08078.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 12:46pm CDT

Mitch and Braden run through their favorite anonymous coaching scouting reports from the 2018 preview magazine. It is their favorite part of putting the magazines together each year and this season offered up another set of juicy coaching morsels.

Direct download: Cover2_073118.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 4:44pm CDT

Coaches have been bringing up playoff expansion at media days so the guys tackle the essential issues surrounding playoff expansion... for the 113th time. Also, what is Urban Meyer thinking? And a nightmare road trip to the worst Power 5 games of 2018.

Direct download: Cover2_072518.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 1:19pm CDT

Mitch Light gets his chance to chime in on the biggest challenges facing college football and react to the all of the answers given to this question on our previous episode. Additionally, what do we make of Larry Fedora or Aaron Murray's comments? Are the players the most important part of media days and how defined are the tiers in the ACC, Big Ten and SEC?

Direct download: Cover2_072018.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:32am CDT

Braden went down to Atlanta for SEC Media Days but wanted to dive deeper into the future of college football instead of talking season. What is the biggest long-term challenge facing the game of college football over the next two decades? Braden spoke to former players, current coaches, lots of national media friends of the pod and even SEC commish Greg Sankey. Find out what they had to say.

Direct download: State_of_Football_071818.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 12:04pm CDT

It's road trip time! And the rules are simple: You can't see a team more than one time in 2018. So where are you going? Mitch and Braden offer up their favorite games, teams and destinations of 2018 in our second annual Dream Road Trip podcast.

Direct download: Cover2_071118.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 11:17am CDT

Mitch and Braden took questions from listeners and answered all. Topics ranged from Mark Richt and Jeff Brohm to enhancing the Playoff, starting quarterbacks, predictions gone horribly wrong, covering games, Syracuse, parenting and much more. Happy 4th, 'Merica!

Direct download: Cover2_070518.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 12:37pm CDT

Braden and Mitch produce a random, internal summer mailbag covering everything from the starting QBs in the Playoff to rules changes to radio broadcasters. It was much fun and very random. Power 5 revenue numbers are out and does it change the way we view the future of football? And Brian Kelly. What do we make of the Notre Dame head coach, how tough is his job really? All this plus some reactions to our coach's rankings as well.

Direct download: Cover2_062818.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 1:04pm CDT

Mitch and Braden invite Steven Lassan to join them to break down the Athlon Sports 2018 coach's rankings. All 130 head coaches are evaluated on past success, recruiting ability, upside, future projections and plenty of subjectivity. Where does your favorite coach rank nationally?

Direct download: Cover2_062018.mp3
Category:sports -- posted at: 12:40pm CDT